Weeknight dinners don’t have to be a scramble! Whether you’re craving something cozy, fresh, or just plain easy, we’ve got you covered with 20 Delicious Easy Weeknight Recipes that are as quick to make as they are tasty. Perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight but appetite is high. Let’s dive into these fuss-free favorites that’ll keep everyone at the table happy!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Dive into the creamy, garlicky goodness of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, a dish that’s as luxurious as it is easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Return the cooked linguine and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the balance of spicy, creamy, and garlicky flavors, all coming together in under 30 minutes.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors.
One-Pan Chicken and Veggies
Looking for a fuss-free dinner that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition? This One-Pan Chicken and Veggies is your weeknight hero, combining juicy chicken with colorful vegetables for a meal that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a large baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Arrange chicken thighs, broccoli florets, red bell pepper slices, and zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and veggies, tossing lightly to coat everything evenly.
- Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
The magic of this dish lies in the caramelization of the honey and soy sauce, creating a glossy, flavorful glaze that coats every bite. It’s a simple yet sophisticated way to bring depth to your dinner routine.
Tip: For an extra crunch, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Craving a quick and flavorful dinner? This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a weeknight hero, combining tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, and red pepper flakes to make the sauce. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add broccoli and stir fry for 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove from skillet.
- Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add flank steak and stir fry for 2 minutes until no longer pink.
- Return broccoli to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
The magic of this dish lies in the balance of textures—tender beef meets crisp broccoli, all coated in a glossy, slightly spicy sauce that’s irresistibly good.
Tip: For extra tenderness, marinate the beef in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch for 15 minutes before cooking.
Quick and Easy Tacos
These Quick and Easy Tacos are your ticket to a fuss-free dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something delicious but short on time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- While the beef mixture simmers, warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
- Fill each taco shell with the beef mixture, then top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
The secret to these tacos’ irresistible flavor is the perfect balance of spices in the taco seasoning, which clings to every bite of the savory beef. It’s a simple trick that elevates the entire dish.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture before serving.
5-Ingredient BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
These 5-Ingredient BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a game-changer for busy weeknights, combining smoky, sweet, and cheesy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with 1/2 cup BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brush one side of a tortilla with melted butter and place it butter-side down in the skillet.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese over half of the tortilla, then top with 1/2 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture. Fold the tortilla over the filling and press gently.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Let the quesadillas cool for a minute before slicing into wedges. Serve warm.
The magic of these quesadillas lies in the caramelized BBQ sauce that seeps into the crispy tortilla, creating a irresistible texture contrast.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture before cooking.
Simple Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, with its garlicky, spicy, and lemony flavors melding together in the simplest yet most satisfying way.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until garlic is golden but not browned.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the oil. Stir in salt, parsley, and lemon juice, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the pasta is nicely coated in a light sauce.
- Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
The magic of this dish lies in the balance of heat from the red pepper flakes and the brightness of lemon, creating a vibrant yet simple pasta that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the garlic slices lightly in the oil before adding the red pepper flakes.
Easy Homemade Pizza
Who says homemade pizza has to be complicated? This easy recipe delivers all the cheesy, saucy goodness you crave with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (16 oz)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F and lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to fit your baking sheet, then transfer it over.
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the sauce, covering it completely.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the pizza, then sprinkle with garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
The secret to this pizza’s irresistible flavor? A double dose of cheese and a crispy, golden crust achieved by baking at a high temperature.
Tip: For an extra crispy crust, preheat your baking sheet in the oven before adding the dough.
30-Minute Chicken Parmesan
Craving a classic Italian-American comfort dish but short on time? This 30-Minute Chicken Parmesan delivers all the crispy, cheesy goodness without the wait.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried basil.
- Cook the chicken in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish.
- Top each chicken piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake for 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
The secret to this dish’s irresistible crunch? A quick pan-fry before baking locks in the juiciness while keeping the coating perfectly crisp.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, mix a tablespoon of grated Parmesan into the breadcrumb coating.
One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta is a dreamy, fuss-free dish that brings gourmet flavor to your weeknight dinner table with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the cremini mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and tender.
- Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Return the cooked fettuccine to the pot. Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and toss until the pasta is evenly coated and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, enriched with the earthy depth of mushrooms and a hint of thyme.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms before the cream.
Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetables
Looking for a fuss-free dinner that packs a punch of flavor? This Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetables is your ticket to a hearty, no-mess meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the sausage, baby potatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender.
The magic of this dish lies in the caramelized edges of the sausage and veggies, creating a depth of flavor that’s irresistibly smoky and sweet.
Tip: For an extra kick, drizzle with hot honey before serving.
Easy Beef Tacos
These Easy Beef Tacos are a weeknight hero, combining juicy seasoned beef with crisp toppings for a meal that’s as fun to assemble as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Pour in water and simmer for 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Warm tortillas according to package instructions. Spoon beef mixture into tortillas, then top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream.
The secret to these tacos is the simmered beef mixture—it’s packed with flavor and just the right amount of juiciness to make every bite satisfying.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the beef while it’s cooking.
Quick Chicken Stir Fry
Whip up this Quick Chicken Stir Fry on those nights when you’re craving something delicious but short on time—it’s a weeknight savior!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add the red bell pepper and broccoli, stirring frequently, until vegetables are crisp-tender, about 4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated and heated through, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The magic of this stir fry lies in the sweet and spicy glaze that coats every bite, making it irresistibly flavorful without any fuss.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Simple Veggie Omelette
Start your morning with this Simple Veggie Omelette, packed with fresh flavors and ready in just minutes. It’s the perfect way to sneak in some veggies first thing in the morning!
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and black pepper until well combined.
- Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until melted. Add bell peppers and onions, sautéing for 2 minutes until slightly soft.
- Add spinach to the skillet and cook for another minute until wilted.
- Pour the whisked eggs over the veggies, tilting the pan to spread evenly. Let it cook undisturbed for 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over one half of the omelette. Carefully fold the other half over the cheese and cook for another minute until the cheese melts.
- Slide the omelette onto a plate and serve hot. The melted cheese inside creates a delightful surprise with every bite, making this omelette a morning favorite.
Tip: For an extra fluffy omelette, add a splash of milk to the eggs before whisking.
Easy Pancakes for Dinner
Who says pancakes are just for breakfast? These easy pancakes for dinner are a delightful twist on the classic, ready in under 30 minutes for those nights when you crave something simple yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- In another bowl, mix 3/4 cup buttermilk, 1/4 cup milk, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Let the batter sit for 5 minutes.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings. The buttermilk in the batter gives these pancakes a tender crumb and a slight tang, making them irresistibly fluffy and flavorful.
Tip: For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle with maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream.
One-Pot Pasta Primavera
One-Pot Pasta Primavera is your ticket to a vibrant, veggie-packed dinner with minimal cleanup. It’s a colorful, comforting dish that comes together in just about 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables start to soften.
- Pour in 3 cups vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add linguine, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes until well combined.
The magic of this dish lies in the pasta cooking right in the broth, soaking up all the flavors while the veggies stay crisp-tender. It’s a simple technique with spectacular results!
Tip: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.
Quick and Easy Grilled Cheese
There’s nothing quite like the crispy, gooey perfection of a classic grilled cheese, and this quick and easy version is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Spread 1/2 tablespoon of unsalted butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
- Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on each slice in the skillet.
- Add 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/8 teaspoon of onion powder to each slice.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience with just the right amount of stretch. Perfect for those nights when you need comfort food in a flash.
Tip: For an extra crispy exterior, try using mayonnaise instead of butter on the outside of the bread.
Simple Salmon with Asparagus
Nothing beats the simplicity and elegance of a perfectly cooked salmon paired with crisp asparagus. This dish is a weeknight hero, ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon and asparagus on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss the asparagus to coat evenly.
- Scatter the minced garlic over the salmon and asparagus, then lay lemon slices on top of the salmon.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
The magic of this recipe lies in the garlic and lemon infusing the salmon with bright, aromatic flavors while the asparagus roasts to perfection alongside it.
Tip: For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped dill or parsley over the dish before serving.
Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Craving something savory and satisfying? This Easy Chicken Fried Rice is your ticket to a delicious, one-pan meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice, cooled
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the eggs and scramble until fully cooked, about 2 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the cooked chicken, peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until heated through.
- Add the cooled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp ground black pepper. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and add the sliced green onions. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute.
The secret to this dish’s irresistible flavor? A splash of sesame oil at the end for that nutty, aromatic finish.
Tip: For the best texture, use day-old rice that’s been chilled in the fridge—it fries up perfectly without getting mushy.
5-Ingredient Tomato Soup
Warm up with this effortlessly creamy 5-Ingredient Tomato Soup, a cozy bowl that proves simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned whole tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the canned whole tomatoes with their juice, breaking them up slightly with a spoon. Stir in 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender. Return to the pot.
- Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and warm through over low heat for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
The magic of this soup lies in the heavy cream, which adds a luxurious silkiness without overpowering the bright, tangy tomatoes.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast some croutons in olive oil and a pinch of salt to serve on top.
Quick Beef and Noodles
Craving something hearty and quick? This Quick Beef and Noodles recipe is your weeknight savior, combining tender beef with silky noodles in a rich, savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef sirloin and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer, then return the beef to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the Worcestershire sauce, which adds a depth of flavor that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Tip: For an even quicker version, use pre-sliced beef from your grocery store’s meat department.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 20 delicious, easy weeknight recipes brings joy and simplicity to your kitchen! Whether you’re in a rush or just craving something tasty, these dishes are sure to please. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next culinary adventure. Happy cooking!